Jenny Willott MP

WOMEN'S LAND ARMY VETERERANS DESERVE RECOGNITION

2008 Chwefror 13 12:00 AM

Today, Jenny Willott MP urged female war veterans to have their efforts recognised by applying for a new badge of recognition.

The badge will acknowledge those surviving members of the Women's Land Army and Women's Timber Corps who worked on the Home Front to provide food and timber for the nation during World War I and II. Jenny's Cardiff Office in 99 Woodville Road will hold copies of application forms and will forward on completed applications to be processed.

Commenting, Jenny said:

"It is about time that we recognise the vital work of the Women's Land Army and Women's Timber Corps to support the nation through the dark days of World War I and II.

"The tireless efforts of the Women's Land Army and Women's Timber Corps were the lifeline for the country during World War I and II. This new badge of honour is a fitting way to remember and pay tribute to their determination, courage and spirit in the face of adversity.

"The Women's Land Army, colloquially known as the Land Girls, worked on farms to feed the nation, as the male workers went to war. At its peak in 1943 there were some 80,000 women working on the land, and it was continued after the war, finally being disbanded in 1950.

"With their uniform of green ties and jumpers and brown felt slouch hats, they worked from dawn to dusk each day, milking cows, digging ditches, sowing seeds and harvesting crops. They supplied the nation with food, supporting the war effort and avoiding food shortages.

"The Women's Timber Corps, also known as the 'Lumber Jills' worked tirelessly in the forests to provide timber for the war effort felling trees, sawing timber and sharpening saws.

"I hope I receive a great many applications for this important badge."